Toyota Prius III 3rd generation hybrid 2009

Toyota launched in 2009 the third generation of the Toyota Prius. This full hybrid vehicle, capable of running on gasoline engine or electric motor alone, or a combination of both, has ninety percent of its components redesigned for lighter, more compact and efficient operation. The power of the hybrid system has been increased by 22 percent from 109 to 134 hp while fuel efficiency is improved by 10 percent ( 3,9 litre per 100 km in combined cycle) and CO2 emission reduced by 14 percent at 89 g/km. A new 1,8 litre gasoline engine replaces the 1,5 litre, generating 97 hp at 4.200 rpm and 142 Nm at 4.000 rpm and the electric motor is now producing 60 kW/ 80 hp. The nickel-metalhydride battery has been increased to a maximum 27 kW (+ 2 kW). The exterior styling, recognized as a development of the sweeping monoform shape has gone through further refinement to render its shape more aerodynamic; the Cd measurement (drag coefficient) is just 0,25 ( 0,29 for the previous generation). At 1.490 mm, the Prius has the same height as before, but the highest point of the roof has been moved 100 mm further back, which means more rear seat headroom.

A new Solar Powered Ventilation System uses solar energy to prevent the interior air temperature from rising too high whilst the car is parked. integral to the sliding glass sunroof, photovoltaic solar panels power the air circulation fan without utilizing the energy of the battery. Used together with the Remote Air Conditioning, this can lower the cabin temperature by 35 degrees Celsius on a sunny day.

Globally, the target is one million Toyota and Lexus hybrid vehicles sold per year in the early 2010s. By the early 2020s, Toyota intend to bring a hybrid version of each Toyota model to market.

See Toyota Prius 1997-2009 for further details on the history of the Toyota Prius and the working principle of the Hybrid System.

Texte Paul Damiens - Photos Illustration Toyota & Paul Damiens

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